JOHNSON COUNTY — Over the last four years, one 911 center's director's idea has grown to help other dispatchers across the state.
911 dispatchers are among the first to know a crisis is unfolding — like the Greenwood Park Mall mass shooting.
PREVIOUS: Johnson County dispatchers still processing after Greenwood mass shooting
That tragedy, like many others, binds the trained telecommunicators who take the critical calls responding to emergencies.
"We have a tight knit group here in Indiana when it comes to 911 centers," Heath Brant, Johnson County 911 Executive Director, said.
In 2018, the death of three kids at a school bus stop led to 911 dispatchers in Fulton County receiving packages and letters from around the country.
Gail Karas, the 911 center director in Fulton County, created one caring tote. There are now four containers that are filled with snacks. The containers travel across the state to show dispatchers they are not alone.
In the past 18 moths, the tote has made 13 stops in 11 separate counties.
The most recent stop was in Madison County where dispatchers handled the calls following the death of Elwood Police Officer Noah Shahnavaz.
"There's a tragic incident that happens and they know how stressful it is on the dispatchers," Brant said. "This is just one way we can support each other."
Johnson County, which had the tote before Madison County, refilled it and made sure the tradition made it to its next destination.
-
Indiana Fever reload for 2026 season with a healthy Caitlin Clark
Although the Fever enjoyed one of their most successful seasons in franchise history last year, they played the final 39 games without star Caitlin Clark, who was sidelined by multiple injuries.
Report: Consumers losing more money to scams as AI use soars
A new report reveals identity crime is becoming more financially severe, with 35% of reported losses exceeding $10,000.
More chances for rain with a cool end to the week
Widespread showers. Additional rainfall amounts this evening into tonight of 0.5-1" with higher amounts further south. Rain will taper off in the early morning hours.
Judge rules in favor of St. Philip Neri over the city of Indianapolis
The city of Indianapolis' motion to dismiss a religious freedom lawsuit filed by St. Philip Neri Catholic Church over the historic designation of Holy Cross Church has been denied.
